Buhari: I’m aware of problems facing police — my administration has helped a lot

President Muhammadu Buhari says his administration has helped to alleviate the problems facing the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

The president spoke on Thursday when he received the 2021 audited report and 2023 budget proposal of the police service commission (PSC), in Abuja.

He underscored the importance of quality welfare in effective service delivery and said the federal government has made it a priority for police officers.

“I particularly note that accommodation for police officers is very critical and this administration has made the welfare of police officers, and indeed, the armed forces a top priority,” NAN quoted him as saying.

“I know that when officers are posted on duty or assignments and they know that their families live in barracks with facilities, schools, clinics, and a conducive living environment, their morale is boosted and they would discharge their duties with courage and efficiency.

“I am pretty aware of the problems and challenges confronting the Nigeria police force and the armed forces.

“The problem is relative to time and resources and this administration has done a lot with the limitations.”

Presenting the 2021 audited report and the 2023 budget proposal to the president, Clara Ogunbiyi, acting chairman of the commission, said the PSC has ensured that ”proper and fit persons are recruited into the Nigeria Police Force”.

She added that the commission has been consistent in ensuring making sure officers are promoted at the right time while erring police officers are sanctioned as appropriate.

While expressing appreciation to the president for the prompt release of funds towards the completion of the PSC headquarters, Ogunbiyi requested that the commission’s budget be placed in the first line charge in budget allocation, as that would allow the commission to be more effective.